In which type of occupancy should room heaters not be installed?

Room heaters should not be installed in health care occupancy for several reasons related to safety, air quality, and the specific needs of patients. In health care facilities, such as hospitals and nursing homes, maintaining a stable and controlled environment is crucial for patient comfort and safety. The use of portable room heaters can introduce risks such as fire hazards, accidental burns, and the potential for overheating, which can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations.

Additionally, the air quality in health care settings is of paramount importance. Room heaters can circulate dust, pathogens, and other allergens, potentially leading to complications for patients with respiratory issues or weakened immune systems. Therefore, these settings often require more consistent heating methods that do not compromise air quality or present safety issues.

Other types of occupancies, such as commercial and educational facilities, may have different regulations and concerns about room heaters. In industrial settings, the use of heaters can be more rigorously controlled and managed, allowing for their application under certain conditions. Thus, health care occupancy is the one area where room heaters should generally be avoided for the well-being of the patients and overall safety of the environment.